Refettorio Detroit

04/10/2026

We have been sharing a lot about Refettorio Detroit and we wanted to reintroduce the project as we move toward breaking ground at our Meldrum Community Center at the end of this month. The Capuchin Soup Kitchen and Food for Soul join together to open Refettorio Detroit, an inspiring community hub, centered on food, culture and sustainability located on the east-side of Detroit. In collaboration with local organizations, producers, artists, architects, and community leaders, the original Meldrum Soup Kitchen location is being transformed into a contemporary model that builds upon the Capuchin Soup Kitchen’s legacy since their founding in 1929, expanding their impact through hospitality, beauty and dignity.

For more information and to support our mission, visit https://www.refettoriodetroit.org/

03/21/2026

On Friday, we took another step closer to Refettorio Detroit. A climate controlled tent was constructed for the meals for our Meldrum Community Center guests to be served. The food will be prepared at our Conner Soup Kitchen while the Meldrum building is under construction to become Refettorio Detroit. We are so grateful for the patience of our guests and for all the support that makes this possible.

03/16/2026

We are grateful to the members of the neighborhood and the local arts community that came together on Friday to share some thoughts on the artwork for the upcoming Refettorio Detroit. We had some great discussions about what kind of art and local artist might be a good fit for this project. Thank you to everyone who attended!

02/19/2026

At the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, our guests are at the heart of everything we do. As we prepare to open Refettorio Detroit at the Meldrum Community Center, it’s essential that we listen first — to understand what makes people feel welcome, safe and respected.

Refettorio Detroit is rooted in dignified hospitality. That begins by honoring the voices and lived experiences of those who will gather at the table each day. When we listen to our guests, we build more than a dining room — we build community.

02/14/2026

10/27/2025

"Detroit's 95-year-old Capuchin Soup Kitchen will replace cafeteria-style food lines with more traditional restaurant-style service — complete with volunteer waitstaff and plated meals — as part of a $2.4 million transformation aimed at serving clients "with dignity."

The changes will take place at one of its two soup kitchens in Detroit as part of its new affiliation with global nonprofit Food for Soul. The Capuchin dining hall on Meldrum Street on the city’s east side is set to become Refettorio Detroit at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen."

Read more:

Capuchin Soup Kitchen will replace cafeteria food lines with restaurant-style service as part of a partnership with Food for Soul.